Flag Football Rules

COED LEAGUE RULES

NUMBER OF PLAYERS/TEAM ROSTERS

Each team shall field eight players, with at least three women at all times. Teams that are not able to field a complete team may play with a minimum of six players (no more than five men, no less than two women). A maximum of two “pick-up” players (one male/one female, two females) will be permitted only when a team does not have enough of its own players present to field a team. Teams are not permitted to use pickup players when sufficient roster players of the same gender are present. A pick-up player is defined as a player on another roster in the same league; because roster checks are not performed in the regular season, true “guest” players are permitted, provided they sign the waiver at www.fxasports.com/guest prior to participation.

Teams that are not able to field at least six players may play a “legal” game with the consent of the opposing captain. It is illegal for a team to have more than eight players on the field of play. Teams with coaches and/or additional players that enter the field of play without entering the game will be penalized for illegal participation.

The league requires the team captain or a team representative to provide the full name of each pick-up player before they can enter the field. A pick-up player can only play for the same team twice (2) in any league / season. This will eliminate teams illegally “sharing” players. Any team that does not report their pick up player(s) may have that game result in a forfeit.

Team rosters and online player registration must be completed and submitted prior to the first scheduled game of the season. Any team that has not submitted these documents by that time will have its scheduled games declared a “forfeit” until all forms are received. If a player fails to submit their online player waiver and release form, all liability and legal issues will be the responsibility of the team captain. FXA Sports will not be responsible for players that do not submit an online player waiver and release form.

Players may only be listed on one team’s roster per league. Leagues are defined as Tuesday Night Co-ed League, Thursday Night Co-ed League, Saturday Co-ed League, Sunday Co-ed league, Wednesday Night Men’s League, Thursday Night Men’s League, Sunday Morning Men’s League and Sunday Night Men’s League. Players can play (and be on a team’s roster) in multiple leagues, they just cannot play for 2 teams in the same league.

For a player to be considered “playoff eligible” (eligible to participate in the playoffs), he/she must be listed on the team’s roster.

Any team that does not have a full roster registered by week 2 will not be eligible for the playoffs.

NO POCKET / FLAG BELT RULE

Due to safety reasons, players cannot wear any article of clothing that contains pockets (shorts, pants, jackets, sweatshirts, hand warmers, etc). If a player wears an article of clothing with pockets, they will not be allowed to wear a flag belt and will be marked down at the spot where the ball was caught. FXA does not permit players to tape their pockets or turn them inside out; only if shorts are “double-lined” where the pocket is concealed inside the lining may a player turn their shorts inside out.

Players may not wear only tights, underwear, or thermal undergarments not intended as exterior wear.

If a player (other than the QB) begins the play without a flag belt, the player will be marked down at the spot where the ball was caught. There is no additional penalty because the player has no opportunity to gain additional yardage. If the QB begins a play without a flag belt, they are down as soon as they receive the snap, and loss of down.

FOOTBALL SIZE REQUIREMENTS

For all plays in which a male player receives the snap, the ball used must be a regulation NFHS/NCAA/NFL sized football. Female players receiving the snap may use a women’s or junior sized football. Note: When a female player takes the snap and pitches a smaller ball laterally or behind to a male player, the male player MAY throw the ball.

GAME TIME / PLAY CLOCK

The game will be divided into two 20 minute halves. Each team is allowed two one-minute timeouts per game. Both timeouts may be used in either half. The offensive team will have 35 seconds to snap the ball once the referee has spotted the ball. The official game clock will be maintained by a referee and will run continuously except for time-outs or serious injury–following an injury timeout, the game clock should resume following the ready-for-play whistle.. The clock will stop during the final 2 minutes of play for the following occurrences:

**If a team is leading by 17 points or more, the clock will run continuously during the last two minutes of play. In this scenario, the team that is winning will not be allowed to use any timeouts that is has left. **

Incomplete pass

Player advancing the ball goes out of bounds

First Down

Change of possession

Either team scores. (The clock will not resume until the opposing team snaps the ball after the PAT attempt. The clock does not run during extra points.)

Penalty

Declared punt

Time Out

BEGINNING OF THE GAME

Teams must be lined up on opposite sidelines. Before the start of the game the referee will toss a coin in the presence of opposing captains, after first designating which captain shall call the toss. The team that wins the coin flip at the start of the game must choose one of the following:

Offense

Defense

To defer the choice of the above options to begin the second half

The team that loses the coin flip shall select the direction for the 2nd half.

Play starts from the 10-yard line at the beginning of each half. At the beginning of the second half, the teams will change their direction of play. There will be a maximum ten minute “grace period” before each game. The game will be deemed a forfeit thereafter at the discretion of the Referee.

SNAPPING THE BALL INTO PLAY

To begin each play, the ball must be snapped from the ground to the QB who is lined up at least 5 yards behind the center. The ball can be snapped to any player lined up at least 5 yards behind the line of scrimmage with a verbal or non-verbal command. Silent counts / snaps are legal. Players may shift and change formations prior to the snap of the ball, but must be stationary at the time the ball is snapped. One player is allowed in motion at the time the ball is snapped, but cannot be moving towards the line of scrimmage. A snap from center is not required on declared punts. A minimum of four players must be lined up (set) at the line of scrimmage at the snap of the ball.

**Before the ball is snapped into play, the head referee will announce when the line is legally set and play can begin. The QB does not have to wait until the referee makes this announcement, however the line must be legally set before a snap can occur.

INTENTIONAL GROUNDING

There is No Intentional Grounding rule

INADVERTENT WHISTLES

Should an inadvertent whistle be blown, the team in possession of the ball at the time of the whistle will have two options: take the result of the play with the ball declared “dead” at the spot where the whistle was blown, or replay the down from the original line of scrimmage. If an inadvertent whistle is blown during a pass play while the ball is in the air, the play will be declared “dead” and replayed from the original line of scrimmage.

OVERTIME

There will be no overtime during the regular season. In the playoffs, overtime will mirror NCAA overtime, and will consist of each team having one offensive possession starting at the 20-yard line selected in a captains meeting (both offenses will go toward the same goal in overtime). The offensive team will have 4 un-timed downs to score a touchdown (all regular penalties will apply during the overtime period). If a touchdown is scored the offensive team will have the option to go for a 1- or 2-point conversion (female scoring will be awarded in the same fashion as during regulation. See Scoring). If teams are tied after the 1st overtime period, the process will be repeated until a winner is determined. Starting with the 3rd overtime period, teams will be required to go for a 2-point conversion upon scoring a touchdown.

FORFEITS

If a game is deemed a forfeit, it will be scored 6-0.

NO CONTACT / NO DOWN FIELD BLOCKING

There is no blocking or tackling permitted in the league. Players acting as offensive linemen may not use their hands when protecting the quarterback from defensive rushers. Offensive linemen can position their bodies at any particular angle in an attempt to direct the rushers to a particular area, but there is no contact permitted. Offensive lineman must have their hands at their sides or behind their backs when blocking to prevent their arms from extending. “Picks” are also NOT permitted at any time.

No downfield blocking/tackling is permitted. Illegal contact includes tripping, contact with the QB, any intentional contact by an opposing player and contact with an opposing player after a ball is tipped. Also note that rough play may result in an unsportsmanlike penalty. Anyone in violation of this rule is subject to penalty, suspension and/or expulsion from the league.

“Picks” or Illegal Screens are NOT Permitted at any time.

CO-ED / GENDER PLAY REQUIREMENTS

The offense will be penalized if it fails to use a female as an “operative player” at least once within three consecutive downs. The penalty for running three consecutive plays without using a female as an “operative player” will be a five yard penalty, loss of down and a female must be the “operative player” on the next play. For example, if a male player catches or runs the ball on a play in which a female must be the “operative player”, the offense will be penalized and must replay the gender requirement.

Note: The term “closed” or “forced gender” means that a female must be the “operative player”. The term “open” means that any player, male or female, is eligible to be the operative player.

A pass attempt must cross the line of scrimmage to count as an operative play.

An operative player is defined as a player who:

Is the intended receiver of a forward pass across the line of scrimmage. The pass does not have to be completed.

If a ball is tipped or under/overthrown, the play’s gender is determined by the last player who made an attempt to catch the ball.

Runs the ball as the primary runner (must cross the line of scrimmage)

Receives the snap as the QB and scrambles past the line of scrimmage or attempts a pass the crosses the line of scrimmage.

Throws or catches a forward pass that is complete behind the line of scrimmage but the resulting run moves past the line of scrimmage.

An operative player is NOT defined as a player who:

Hands off the football to another player

Snaps the ball into play

Receives a handoff only to pass or handoff the ball to a male before crossing the line of scrimmage

Female who throws a lateral pass

Receives a lateral from another player and does not cross the line of scrimmage.

Examples:

A pass deflected by a male and caught by a female is a female “operative” play

If a female pitches the ball to a male behind the line of scrimmage, this will not result in a female “operative” play

If a male laterals the ball to a female past the line of scrimmage, this will not result in a female “operative” play

If a female throws a forward pass that does not cross the line of scrimmage, but is caught and gains positive yardage, that does count as a female operative play

Gender Play (Tipped Pass) Clarification

A pass that is deflected by a female, and caught by a male does not count as a female “operative” play

If this occurs on a “closed” play, the offense has the option of:

Accepting the play as an incomplete pass and having it count as a female play

Accepting a 5-yard penalty and replaying the down as a closed play

There is no gender requirement for extra points and punt plays.

FIRST DOWNS

Each team shall have four downs to earn a first down or score. First downs are achieved when a team crosses either of the 20 yard markers (20, 20) based on its original field position. Offensive teams may elect to punt on fourth downs. All punts are live and may be fielded after bouncing on the ground. However, if a receiving player muffs (touches) the ball and it hits the ground, the play is dead. If a team does not punt, fails to score or earn a first down the opposing team will obtain possession.

SCORING

The scoring shall be assigned as follows:

Touchdown:

A Male Touchdown is awarded 6 points

A 9-point touchdown will be awarded in the following scenarios:

A female runs the ball from behind the line of scrimmage for the score

A male QB throws to a female receiver who scores

A pass that is tipped by a male and caught by a female will be awarded a 9 point female TD

A female returns an interception or punt for a score

A female QB throws to any receiver for the score (regardless of any pitches to a male)

Any lateral passes (pitches) involving a male player during any of the above situations will result in only 6 points being awarded, except that the female was the QB who threw a forward pass.

All other touchdowns will be awarded 6 points

Extra Point(s):

From the 5 yard line

1-point for all normal conversions

2-points will be awarded using the same scenarios listed above for the 9-point TD

From the 10 yard line

2-point for all normal conversions

3-points will be awarded using the same scenarios listed above for the 9-point TD The defense may return an interception for two points on a two-point attempt.

FIELD GOALS

In the competitive division only, teams may attempt field goals. Once a team has elected a field goal attempt, the Referee shall move the marker 10 yards toward the goal post (to account for playing on an 80 yard field).

Must be snapped a minimum of 7 yards back from the line of scrimmage to the holder.

The holder must be stationary and can stand or kneel to receive the snap, but must catch the ball in the air and place it on the ground for the kicker to kick.

The defense can only jump to block the FG, they are not allowed to rush or cross the line of scrimmage

Holders may not use a kicking tee/block or their foot/shoe to raise/hold the ball. The ball must be placed on the ground, and held with one finger (same as College/NFL)

A missed FG is not returnable in the co-ed league.

PASS RUSH

Once the line of scrimmage has been marked, the referee will walk off five paces in the direction the offense is going and place another marker. This “5 pace” marker is the “RUSH LINE”. Only defensive players that are behind this marker when the ball is snapped may cross the line of scrimmage to rush the QB. No players lined up within this “zone”, may rush the QB. If the QB pitches the ball or hands-off to another offensive player, any defensive player may cross the line of scrimmage no matter where they were lined up before the snap. If the line of scrimmage is between the goal line and the five-yard line, the RUSH LINE will be the goal line. The rush line can never be placed inside the endzone.

CONTINUANCE OF PLAY

Play shall continue until:

Ball carrier has flag-belt pulled by an opponent (see flag specifics for the few exceptions/additions concerning flag pulling)

Ball carrier leaves the field of play

Ball carrier scores

Ball carrier’s knee touches the ground

Ball touches the ground

SPOT OF THE BALL

The ball will be spotted where the ball is at the time the ball carrier’s flag is pulled. If the ball crosses the plane of the goal line before the ball carrier’s flag has been pulled it will result in a touchdown (ball extension).

PUNTS

The offensive team must declare their intention to punt or election to play on every 4th down. The referee shall notify the defensive team of the election prior to the ball being made ready for play.

A punt must be declared and cannot be faked.

The receiving team may return a punt once it has hit the ground.

All punts are “free punts”. A team need not snap during a punt.

A dropped snap during a punt is not a fumble.

Punts must be kicked and cannot be thrown.

The kicking team may not cross the line of scrimmage until the ball is kicked.

Downfield blocking is not permitted.

The receiving team can line up be no closer than the 5-yard rush line and may not raise hands or jump to block a punt.

The punting team may down the punted ball if the receiving team makes no effort to gain the ball.

A punt into the end zone will be spotted at the 10-yard line–the punt is immediately ruled a touchback once the ball breaks the vertical plane of the goal line.

If a player drops the ball in the end zone, the ball is spotted at the 10-yard line and is not counted as a safety.

TURNOVERS

A change of possession (not after a score) can only occur due to downs or an interception. A fumble is not a turnover and the play is considered dead at the point of the fumble. A lateral may be intercepted and returned by the opposing team.

FLAG GUARDING

Flag guarding is not allowed. Flag guarding is defined as any action that is made with the arms, hands, or legs that prevents a player from being able to pull another player’s flag. A player engaging in flag guarding will be penalized. It is illegal to pull the flag of a player who does not have possession of the football. Throwing flag belts after making a pull is not allowed, and can be penalized as a personal foul.

FLAG BELTS

Flag belts must be fastened outside of all clothing with nothing obstructing them. If, during a play, any clothing obstructs the defense’s ability to grab a flag (shirt is hanging over the flag belt), then the player will be called down at the first instance that the defense had a chance to pull the flag. A ball carrier whose flag-belt falls off inadvertently during a play will be considered down upon a one-handed touch. However, if any player (besides the QB) gains possession of the ball without properly secured flags, then they will be down as soon as they touch/catch the ball. It is a penalty for a ball carrier to stiff-arm, charge into, or deliberately try to knock over a defensive player. In addition, a ball carrier may not dive (diving is defined as a player leaving their feet without returning to their feet) in an effort to gain extra yardage.

SPORTSMANSHIP

FXA endorses the principles of good sportsmanship. Unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated. Unsportsmanlike conduct can include the following: Fighting, pushing, verbal/physical abuse directed toward an official or opponent, profanity/obscene gestures, flagrant/violent fouls, taunting/trash talking/baiting, cheating, throwing/abusing equipment and physical intimidation. A player may be ejected from a game (or a team may be evicted from the field of play) for engaging in Unsportsmanlike Conduct. An official may call a forfeit for unsportsmanlike conduct at any time, including after the game clock has expired. The League has the authority to suspend and/or expel a player or team from the league and/or future game(s) at its discretion with no refund of monies for such acts. These guidelines apply to players and spectators.

WEATHER CANCELATION POLICY

Games may be cancelled due to existing weather conditions, dangerous or unplayable field conditions, facility constraints, etc. FXA staff makes every effort to play all scheduled games, thus we will not cancel games until absolutely necessary. Therefore, if you call the FXA Hotline to find out if the fields are open and/or games are cancelled, remember we will not update the hotline until close to the start of the game. With that said, we will update the hotline as soon as we have updated status.

If the games are cancelled, FXA will update the hotline immediately. FXA will then change the status of the field to Closed on the website, which will send out an email to all roster players letting them know the game is cancelled. It is still the captain’s responsibility to inform all teammates of the cancellation. If a game is cancelled on site, FXA will attempt to contact those teams still scheduled to play the remainder of the day/night. Depending on the time of cancellation, some teams will have to be notified on site. If we do cancel, follow next week’s schedule unless otherwise notified, (i.e. If June 20th games are cancelled, teams should follow the June 27th schedule for their next game). The games that are cancelled will be made up towards the end of the season if time allows.

In extreme circumstances, FXA reserves the right to run a shortened season without a refund. FXA will make every attempt to get all regular season games played, however for every two (2) game cancellations due to weather, the season may be shortened one (1) regular season game. FXA also reserves the right to schedule games on days other than your regularly scheduled league day/night if necessary

FORFEIT FEES

If your team needs to forfeit a game (for whatever reason), please make sure to let us know ASAP. FXA Football has now implemented the following forfeit fees: $100 within 8 hours of game time (Monday – Friday) and within 12 hours of game time (Saturdays & Sundays).

NO JEWELRY POLICY

At the Referee’s discretion, he/she can ask any player to remove jewelry they feel is not safe for play. Failure to comply could result in a suspension and game forfeit.

PENALTIES & ENFORCEMENT

OFFENSIVE FOULS

PENALTY

ENFORCEMENT SPOT

DOWN

Flag Guarding

5 Yards

Spot Foul

Next Down

Offsides

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Downfield Blocking

5 Yards

Spot Foul

Next Down

False Start (*Dead Ball Foul)

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Gender Violation (Still Closed)

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Next Down

Illegal Contact/Pick (Pre-Pass)

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Illegal Contact/Pick (Post-Pass)

5 Yards

Spot Foul

Next Down

Illegal Forward Pass

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Loss of Down

Illegal Motion

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Illegal Participation

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Illegal Formation

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Offensive Pass Interference

10 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Diving

5 Yards

Spot Foul

Next Down

DEFENSIVE FOULS

PENALTY

ENFORCEMENT SPOT

DOWN

Illegal Rushing

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Offsides

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Illegal Contact

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Pass Interference

10 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Auto 1st Down

Roughing the Passer

10 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Auto 1st Down

Holding (on Run Plays)

5 Yards

End of Run

Next Down

Holding (on Pass Plays)

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Illegal Flag Pull

5 Yards

Spot Foul

Next Down

Illegal Stripping

5 Yards

End of Run

Next Down

Illegal Participation

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

GENERAL FOULS

PENALTY

ENFORCEMENT SPOT

DOWN

Arguing w/ Official

10 Yards

End of Play

Next Down

Unsportsmanlike Conduct

10 Yards

End of Play

Automatic 1st Down

Defensive Excessive ContactÃƒ‚ / Rough Play

10 Yards

End of Play

Auto 1st Down

Offensive Excessive ContactÃƒ‚ / Rough Play

10 Yards

End of Play

Loss of Down

Defensive Penalty Clarifications:

Holding = Replay the down if the penalty occurs on 4th down or inside the 10-yard line

Illegal Contact is defined as:

Tripping

Contact with the QB

Any intentional contact by an opposing player (referee discretion)

Contact with an opposing player after a ball is tipped

Rough play may result in an unsportsmanlike penalty

Illegal Stripping = It is illegal to bat or strip a ball from a player’s hand.

A game cannot end on a defensive penalty even if time expires. One un-timed down will be required to complete the game.

Offensive Penalty Clarifications:

Illegal Contact is defined as:

Pushing Off

Any other intentional contact by an offensive player on a defensive player in the field of play

If official determines that contact was initiated “with intent to harm”, the offending player will be ejected from the game. The player must leave the field of play immediately. If the player does not leave the field his/her team may be charged with a forfeit for the game regardless of score or time remaining. Any player ejected from a game may not play in any other games that day.

The ejected player may not play in future games without league approval.

An official may call a forfeit for unsportsmanlike conduct. Even if the game has ended, an official may call a forfeit.

The League has the authority to suspend and/or expel a player or team from the league and/or future game(s) at its discretion with no refund of monies for such acts.

Fighting:

Automatic ejection from the game

Once ejected, a player must leave the field. If the player does not leave the field his/her team may be charged a forfeit for that game, regardless of score or time remaining. Any player ejected from a game may not play in any other games that day.

The ejected player may not play in future games without league approval.

An official may call a forfeit for unsportsmanlike conduct. Even if the game has ended, an official may call a forfeit.

The League has the authority to suspend and/or expel a player or team from the league and/or future game(s) at its discretion with no refund of monies for such acts.

FXA LEAGUE POLICIES

Team Captains are responsible for the complete payment of all league fees.

A Captains’ Meeting will be held prior to the start of the season. Captains, or a team representative, are required to attend. League rules and procedures will be discussed at that time.

League fees must be paid by PayPal before the first game. Failure to make payment before this time may lead to expulsion from the league.

Team Rosters must be completed and submitted online. Additions and changes to the Roster are permitted up until the fourth game of the season

The Online Player Waiver & Release form must be filled out completely by each player, and submitted online before the first game.

If a team is not prepared to play at its designated game time and/or does not have the minimum number of players at the designated game time, the game will be declared a forfeit. There will be a ten-minute grace period prior to a forfeit being declared.

A maximum of two “pick-up” players (1 male & 1 female or 2 females) will be permitted only when a team does not have enough of its own players present to field a team. Additionally, the league now requires the team captain or a team representative to provide the full name of each pick-up player before they can enter the field. In extreme cases, that pick up player may be required to show ID. A pick-up player can only play for the same team twice (2) in any league / season. This rule is intended to eliminate teams illegally “sharing” players. Any team that does not report their pick up player(s) may have that game result in a forfeit. A pick up player is defined as any male or female that is not listed on the team’s roster.

If a game is stopped due to dangerous weather conditions prior to the beginning of the second half or prior to a previously designated point, the game will be replayed in its entirety. If a game is stopped thereafter, it will be considered a complete game and the score will stand. There is no requirement that each team have the same number of offensive series before a game is stopped.

Any excessive verbal or physical activity will result in an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. This rule applies to players, managers and coaches on the field and on the sidelines.

Fighting or obscene language will result in an automatic ejection from the league with no refund of payments. Unsportsmanlike behavior will not be tolerated.

ABSOLUTELY NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES OR DRUG USE ARE ALLOWED ON THE FIELD. Any player using drugs or alcohol in the playing area, the parking lot, before, during or after games will be ejected from the league with no refund of payments. THIS RULE WILL BE STRICTLY ENFORCED.

These rules & policies are designed to make the league run as smoothly and safely as possible, and provide continuity for its participants. Each player in the league is responsible for this information: please advise your team of these rules / league policies and thanks for playing.

MEN’S LEAGUE RULES

ROSTER SIZE & REGULATIONS

Each team shall field eight male players. Teams that are not able to field a complete team may play with a minimum of six players. A maximum of two pick-up players will be permitted only when a team does not have enough of its own players present to field a team. Teams that are not able to field at least six players may play a legal game with the consent of the opposing captain. It is illegal for a team to have more than eight players on the field of play. Teams with coaches and/or additional players who enter the field of play without entering the game will be penalized for illegal participation.

Team rosters and online player waiver release forms must be completed and submitted prior to the first scheduled game of the season. Any team that has not submitted these forms by that time will have its scheduled games declared a forfeit until all forms are received. If a player fails to submit their online player waiver release form, all liability and legal issues will be the responsibility of the team captain. Fairfax Athletics will not be responsible for players that do not submit an online player waiver release form.

Players may be listed only on one teams roster per season throughout the league. For a player to be considered playoff eligible (eligible to participate in the playoffs), he must be listed on a teams roster and must have played in a minimum of two regular season games for that particular team.

Any team that does not have a full roster uploaded to the website and visible to the public by week 2 will not be eligible for the playoffs. No exceptions will be made!

NO POCKET/FLAG BELT RULES

Due to safety reasons, players cannot wear any article of clothing that contains pockets (shorts, pants, jackets, sweatshirts, hand warmers, etc). If a player wears an article of clothing with pockets, they will not be allowed to wear a flag belt and will be marked down at the spot where the ball was caught. FXA does not permit players to tape their pockets or turn them inside out; only if shorts are double-lined where the pocket is concealed inside the lining may a player turn their shorts inside out.

If a player (other than the QB) begins the play without a flag belt, the player will be marked down at the spot where the ball was caught. There is no additional penalty because the player has no opportunity to gain additional yardage. If the QB begins a play without a flag belt, they are down as soon as they receive the snap, and loss of down.

FOOTBALL SIZE REQUIREMENTS

For all plays, the ball used must be a regulation NFHS/NCAA/NFL sized football.

GAME TIME/PLAY CLOCK

The game will be divided into two 22 minute halves. Each team is allowed two 30 second timeouts per half. Unused timeouts will not carry over from one period to another. The offensive team will have 30 seconds to snap the ball once the referee has made the ball ready for play. The official game clock will be maintained by a referee and will run continuously except for time-outs or serious injury–following an injury timeout, the game clock should resume following the ready-for-play whistle.. The clock will stop during the final 2 minutes of each half for the following occurrences:

Incomplete pass

Player advancing the ball goes out of bounds

Change of possession

Either team scores. (The clock will not continue until the opposing team snaps the ball after the PAT attempt. The clock does not run during extra points.)

Penalty

Time Out

If a team is leading by 17 points or more, the clock will run continuously during the last two minutes of play. In this scenario, the team that is winning will not be allowed to use any timeouts that is has left if they are on offense.

BEGINNING OF THE GAME

Teams must be lined up on opposite sidelines. Before the start of the game the referee will toss a coin in the presence of opposing captains, after first designating which captain shall call the toss. The team that wins the coin flip at the start of the game must choose one of the following:

Offense

Defense

To defer the choice of the above options to begin the second half

The team that loses the coin flip shall select the direction for the 2nd half.

There will be a maximum ten minute grace period before each game. The game will be deemed a forfeit thereafter at the discretion of the Referee.

FREE KICKS

A free kick begins each half of a game, and begins play following a touchdown, field goal, or safety. The ball shall be put in play by a place kick from some spot on the kicking teams restraining line: the 40 yard line, or from the 20 yard line following a safety. The receiving teams restraining line will be 20 yards from the kicking teams restraining line.

No player of the kicking team may touch a free kick before it reaches the receiving teams restraining line. Thereafter, all players of the kicking team are eligible to touch, recover, or catch the kick. No player of the kicking team may interfere with the receiving teams opportunity to catch the ball. A free kick touched by a player of the kicking team which then touches the ground is dead at the spot at which it touches the ground. If first touched before reaching the restraining line of the receiving team, it belongs to the receiving team. If first touched after reaching the restraining line of the receiving team, the ball belongs to the kicking team. A free kick touched by a player of the receiving team, which then touches the ground, is dead at the spot at which it touches the ground and belongs to the receiving team.

A kick caught or recovered by a player of the receiving team continues in play; if caught or recovered by the kicking team, the ball becomes dead.

SCRIMMAGE (PLACE) KICKS

Must be snapped a minimum of 7 yards back from the line of scrimmage to the holder.

The holder must be stationary and can stand or kneel to receive the snap, but must catch the ball in the air and place it on the ground for the kicker to kick.

The defense can only jump to block the FG, they are not allowed to rush or cross the line of scrimmage

Holders may not use a kicking tee/block or their foot/shoe to raise/hold the ball. The ball must be placed on the ground, and held with one finger (same as College/NFL)

A missed FG recovered by the defense is returnable by the defense.

Any yardage gained or points scored will stand just as on a play from scrimmage.

A missed FG not returned will result in the ball being returned to the original line of scrimmage and the defense taking possession.

New (Summer 2016): A missed FG where the original line of scrimmage was inside the 20 yard line will be spotted at the 20 yard line when the defense takes possession.

PUNTS

A punt must be declared and cannot be fakes. The referee shall notify the defensive team prior to the ball being made ready-for-play.

New (Summer 2016): Punts must be snapped just like all other plays from scrimmage.

Punts must be kicked and cannot be thrown.

The kicking team may not cross the line of scrimmage until the ball is kicked.

Downfield blocking is not permitted.

The receiving team may not raise hands or jump to block a punt.

The kicking team may down the punt, but may not recover a punt.

A punt through the end zone will be spotted at the 20-yard line. If a player drops the ball in the end zone, the ball is spotted at the 20-yard line and is not counted as a safety.

SNAPPING THE BALL INTO PLAY

To begin each play, the ball must be snapped by a center to the QB who is lined up behind the center. The ball can be snapped with a verbal or nonverbal command–silent counts / snaps are legal. Players may shift and change formations prior to the snap of the ball, but must be stationary at the time the ball is snapped. One player is allowed in motion at the time the ball is snapped, but cannot be moving towards the line of scrimmage. A snap from center is required on declared punts. A minimum of four players must be lined up (set) at the line of scrimmage at the snap of the ball.

New (Summer 2016): A skip rule will now be in effect for all snaps–the ball may skip one time provided it is then fielded cleanly by the quarterback.

FORWARD PASS

All players are eligible to receive a forward pass. During a scrimmage down and before team possession has changed, a forward pass may be thrown provided some part of the passers body remains behind the line of scrimmage.

New (Summer 2016) The offense may make as many forward passes as desired from in or behind the neutral zone. Once the ball has crossed the line of scrimmage (run or pass), all subsequent forward passes during that down, are illegal. The ball may be thrown across only once during the down.

INADVERTENT WHISTLE

Should an inadvertent whistle be blown, the team in possession of the ball at the time of the whistle will have two options: take the result of the play with the ball declared dead at the spot where the whistle was blown, or replay the down from the original line of scrimmage. If an inadvertent whistle is blown during a pass play while the ball is in the air, the play will be declared dead and replayed from the original line of scrimmage.

OVERTIME

There will be no overtime during the regular season. In the playoffs, overtime will consist of each team having one offensive possession starting at the opponents 20-yard line. A second coin toss shall determine order and direction. The team winning the coin toss shall have the option to elect offense first, defense first, or select the end to be used for the overtime period(s). Both teams shall go the same direction on offense for the entirety of overtime.

The offensive team will have 4 un-timed downs to score a touchdown (all regular penalties will apply during the overtime period). If a touchdown is scored the offensive team will have the the same conversion options that applied in regulation.. If teams are tied after the 1st overtime period, the process will be repeated until a winner is determined. Starting with the 3rd overtime period, teams will be required to attempt a 2-point conversion upon scoring a touchdown.

FORFEITS

If a game is deemed a forfeit, it will be scored 6-0.

CONTACT/BLOCKING

There is limited blocking and contact; however there will be no tackling permitted in the league. Players acting as offensive linemen can use their hands to block defensive rushers (between their shoulders and waist) when protecting the quarterback. Offensive linemen can position their bodies at any particular angle in an attempt to direct the rushers to a particular area and can use their hands to protect the QB.

No downfield blocking/tackling is permitted. Illegal contact includes tripping, contact with the QB, any intentional contact by an opposing player, and contact with an opposing player after a ball is tipped. Also note that rough play may result in an unsportsmanlike penalty. Anyone in violation of this rule is subject to penalty, suspension and/or expulsion from the league.

We have a 1-Pace Rush Line that only allows defensive players who are behind this line to rush the QB. IT IS ILLEGAL FOR DEFENSIVE RUSHERS TO RUN THROUGH AN OFFENSIVE BLOCKER TO PURSUE THE QB.

Violation of this rule is a 10-yard penalty/previous spot/replay down.

This restriction gives defensive rushers 2 options:

Do a speed rush, but must run around the offensive blocker to pursue the QB

Run towards the line-of-scrimmage; slow down when approaching an offensive blocker; engage contact; and then use legal means to pursue the QB

A legal block consists of contact with open hands (with palms facing the opponent) to the area between the waist and shoulders. Blocking is restricted to at or behind the line-of-scrimmage. These contact rules apply to both offensive blockers and defensive rushers.

FIRST DOWNS

Each team shall have four downs to earn a first down or score. First downs are achieved when a team crosses either of the 20 yard markers (20, 20) based on its original field position. Offensive teams may elect to punt on fourth downs. All punts are live and may be fielded after bouncing on the ground. However, if a receiving player muffs (touches) the ball and it hits the ground, the play is dead. If a team does not punt, fails to score or earn a first down the opposing team will obtain possession.

SCORING

The scoring shall be assigned as follows:

Touchdown: All touchdowns will be awarded 6 points

Extra Point(s):

Play from the 5 yd line – 1-point

Play from the 10 yd line – 2-points

Kick from the 10 yard line (snapped from the 3 yard line) – 1 point

Field Goal: All Field Goals will be awarded 3 points

The defense may return an interception for two points on a two-point conversion attempt.

PASS RUSH

Once the line of scrimmage has been marked, the referee will walk off one (1) pace in the direction the offense is going and place another marker. This 1 pace marker is the RUSH LINE. Only defensive players that are behind this marker when the ball is snapped may cross the line of scrimmage to rush the QB. No players lined up within this zone, may rush the QB. If the QB pitches the ball or hands-off to another offensive player, any defensive player may cross the line of scrimmage no matter where they were lined up before the snap. If the line of scrimmage is between the goal line and the one-yard line, the RUSH LINE will be the goal line. The rush line can never be placed inside the endzone.

Note: The RUSH LINE will not be applicable when the QB is lined up directly behind the CENTER to receive the snap of the ball; that is, when the CENTER hands the ball to the QB at the snap. In such situations, defensive players lined up in front of the RUSH LINE may rush the QB.

CONTINUANCE OF PLAY

Play shall continue until:

Ball carrier has flag-belt pulled by an opponent (see flag specifics for the few exceptions/additions concerning flag pulling)

Ball carrier leaves the field of play

Ball carrier scores

Ball carrier’s knee touches the ground

Ball touches the ground

SPOT OF THE BALL

The ball will be spotted where the ball is at the time the ball carrier’s flag is pulled. If the ball crosses the plane of the goal line before the ball carrier’s flag has been pulled it will result in a touchdown (ball extension).

TUNROVERS

A change of possession (not after a score) can only occur due to downs or an interception. A fumble is not a turnover and the play is considered dead at the point of the fumble. A lateral may be intercepted and returned by the opposing team.

FLAG GUARDING

Flag guarding is not allowed. Flag guarding is defined as any action that is made with the arms, hands, or legs that prevents a player from being able to pull another player’s flag. A player engaging in flag guarding will be penalized. It is illegal to pull the flag of a player who does not have possession of the football. Throwing flag belts after making a pull is not allowed, and can be penalized as a personal foul.

FLAG BELTS

Flag belts must be fastened outside of all clothing with nothing obstructing them. If, during a play, any clothing obstructs the defenses ability to grab a flag (shirt is hanging over the flag belt), then the player will be called down at the first instance that the defense had a chance to pull the flag. A ball carrier whose flag-belt falls off inadvertently during a play will be considered down upon a one-handed touch. However, if any player gains possession of the ball without properly secured flags, then they will be down as soon as they touch/catch the ball. It is a penalty for a ball carrier to stiff-arm, charge into, or deliberately try to knock over a defensive player. In addition, a ball carrier may not dive (diving is defined as a player leaving their feet without returning to their feet) in an effort to gain extra yardage.

SPORTSMANSHIPS

FXA endorses the principles of good sportsmanship. Unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated. Unsportsmanlike conduct can include the following: Fighting, pushing, verbal/physical abuse directed toward an official or opponent, profanity/obscene gestures, flagrant/violent fouls, taunting/trash talking/baiting, cheating, throwing/abusing equipment and physical intimidation. A player may be ejected from a game (or a team may be evicted from the field of play) for engaging in Unsportsmanlike Conduct. An official may call a forfeit for unsportsmanlike conduct at any time, including after the game clock has expired. The League has the authority to suspend and/or expel a player or team from the league and/or future game(s) at its discretion with no refund of monies for such acts. These guidelines apply to players and spectators.

GAME CANCELLATION

Games may be cancelled due to existing weather conditions, dangerous or unplayable field conditions, facility constraints, etc. FXA staff makes every effort to play all scheduled games, thus we will not cancel games until absolutely necessary. Therefore, if you call the FXA Hotline to find out if the fields are open and/or games are cancelled, remember we will not update the hotline until close to the start of the game. With that said, we will update the hotline as soon as we have updated status.

If the games are cancelled, FXA will update the hotline immediately. FXA will then change the status of the field to Closed on the website, which will send out an email to all roster players letting them know the game is cancelled. It is still the captains responsibility to inform all teammates of the cancellation. If a game is cancelled on site, FXA will attempt to contact those teams still scheduled to play the remainder of the day/night. Depending on the time of cancellation, some teams will have to be notified on site. If we do cancel, follow next weeks schedule unless otherwise notified, (i.e. If June 20th games are cancelled, teams should follow the June 27th schedule for their next game). The games that are cancelled will be made up towards the end of the season if time allows.

In extreme circumstances, FXA reserves the right to run a shortened season without a refund. FXA will make every attempt to get all regular season games played, however for every two (2) game cancellations due to weather, the season may be shortened one (1) regular season game. FXA also reserves the right to schedule games on days other than your regularly scheduled league day/night if necessary

FORFEIT FEES

If your team needs to forfeit a game (for whatever reason), please make sure to let us know ASAP. FXA Football has now implemented the following forfeit fees: $100 within 8 hours of game time (Monday – Friday) and within 12 hours of game time (Saturdays & Sundays).

NO JEWELRY POLICIES

At the Referees sole discretion, any player may be required to remove jewelry deemed unsafe feel for play. Failure to comply could result in a suspension and game forfeit.

PENALTIES & ENFORCEMENTS

OFFENSIVE FOULS

PENALTY

ENFORCEMENT SPOT

DOWN

Flag Guarding

5 Yards

Spot Foul

Next Down

OffSides

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Downfield Blocking

10 Yards

Spot Foul

Next Down

False Start (*Dead Ball Foul)

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Illegal Contact/Pick (Pre-Pass)

10 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Illegal Contact/Pick (Post-Pass)

10 Yards

Spot Foul

Next Down

Illegal Forward Pass

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Loss of Down

Illegal Motion

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Illegal Participation

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Illegal Formation

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Offensive Pass Interference

10 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Diving

5 Yards

Spot Foul

Next Down

DEFENSIVE FOULS

PENALTY

ENFORCEMENT SPOT

DOWN

Illegal Rushing

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

OffSides

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Illegal Contact

10 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Pass Interference

15 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Auto 1st Down

Roughing the Passer

15 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Auto 1st Down

Holding (on Run Plays)

10 Yards

End of Run

Next Down

Holding (on Pass Plays)

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Auto 1st Down

Illegal Flag Pull

5 Yards

Spot Foul

Next Down

Illegal Stripping

5 Yards

End of Run

Next Down

Illegal Participation

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

GENERAL FOULS

PENALTY

ENFORCEMENT SPOT

DOWN

Arguing w/ Official

15 Yards

End of Play

Next Down

Unsportsmanlike Conduct

15 Yards

End of Play

Auto 1st Down

Defensive Excessive Contact / Rough Play

15 Yards

End of Play

Auto 1st Down

Offensive Excessive Contact / Rough Play

15 Yards

End of Play

Loss of Down

Defensive Penalty Clarifications:

Holding = Replay the down if the penalty occurs on 4th down or inside the 10-yard line

Illegal Contact is defined as:

Tripping

Contact with the QB

Any intentional contact by an opposing player (referee discretion)

Contact with an opposing player after a ball is tipped

Rough play may result in an unsportsmanlike penalty

Illegal Stripping = It is illegal to bat or strip a ball from a player’s hand.

A game cannot end on a defensive penalty even if time expires. One un-timed down will be required to complete the game.

Offensive Penalty Clarifications:

Illegal Contact is defined as:

Pushing Off

Any other intentional contact by an offensive player on a defensive player in the field of play

If official determines that contact was initiated with intent to harm, the offending player will be ejected from the game. The player must leave the field of play immediately. If the player does not leave the field his/her team may be charged with a forfeit for the game regardless of score or time remaining. Any player ejected from a game may not play in any other games that day.

The ejected player may not play in future games without league approval.

An official may call a forfeit for unsportsmanlike conduct. Even if the game has ended, an official may call a forfeit.

The League has the authority to suspend and/or expel a player or team from the league and/or future game(s) at its discretion with no refund of monies for such acts.

Fighting:

Automatic ejection from the game

Once ejected, a player must leave the field. If the player does not leave the field his/her team may be charged a forfeit for that game, regardless of score or time remaining. Any player ejected from a game may not play in any other games that day.

The ejected player may not play in future games without league approval.

An official may call a forfeit for unsportsmanlike conduct. Even if the game has ended, an official may call a forfeit.

The League has the authority to suspend and/or expel a player or team from the league and/or future game(s) at its discretion with no refund of monies for such acts.

GENERAL LEAGUE POLICIES

Team Captains are responsible for the complete payment of all league fees

A Captains Meeting will be held prior to the start of the season. Captains, or a team representative, are required to attend. League rules and procedures will be discussed at that time

League fees must be paid before the first game. Failure to make payment before this time may lead to expulsion from the league

Team Rosters must be completed and submitted online. Additions and changes to the Roster are permitted up until the fourth game of the seaso

The Online Player Waiver & Release form must be filled out completely by each player, and submitted online before the first game

If a team is not prepared to play at its designated game time and/or does not have the minimum number of players at the designated game time, the game will be declared a forfeit. There will be a ten-minute grace period prior to a forfeit being declared

A maximum of two pick-up players will be permitted only when a team does not have enough of its own players present to field a team

If a game is stopped due to dangerous weather conditions prior to the beginning of the second half or prior to a previously designated point, the game will be replayed in its entirety. If a game is stopped thereafter, it will be considered a complete game and the score will stand. There is no requirement that each team have the same number of offensive series before a game is stopped

Any excessive verbal or physical activity will result in an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. This rule applies to players, managers and coaches on the field and on the sidelines

Fighting or obscene language will result in an automatic ejection from the league with no refund of payments. Unsportsmanlike behavior will not be tolerated

ABSOLUTELY NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES OR DRUG USE ARE ALLOWED ON THE FIELD. Any player using drugs or alcohol in the playing area, the parking lot, before, during or after games will be ejected from the league with no refund of payments. THIS RULE WILL BE STRICTLY ENFORCED.

These rules & policies are designed to make the league run as smoothly and safely as possible, and provide continuity for its participants. Each player in the league is responsible for this information: please advise your team of these rules / league policies and thanks for playing.

WOMEN’S 8 VS 8 LEAGUE RULES

Team Size

Each team shall field eight female players. Teams that are not able to field a complete team may play with a minimum of six players. A maximum of two pick-up players will be permitted only when a team does not have enough of its own players present to field a team. Teams that are not able to field at least six players may play a legal game with the consent of the opposing captain. It is illegal for a team to have more than eight players on the field of play. Teams with coaches and/or additional players whom enter the field of play without entering the game will be penalized for illegal participation.

Team rosters and online player waiver & release forms must be completed and submitted prior to the first scheduled game of the season. Any team that has not submitted these documents by that time will have its scheduled games declared a forfeit until all forms are received. If a player fails to submit their online player waiver & release form, all liability and legal issues will be the responsibility of the team captain. Fairfax Athletics will not be responsible for players that do not submit an online player waiver & release form.

Players may be listed only on one teams roster per season throughout the league. For a player to be considered playoff eligible (eligible to participate in the playoffs), he must be listed on a teams roster and must have played in a minimum of two regular season games for that particular team.

Any team that does not have a full roster uploaded to the website and visible to the public by week 2 will not be eligible for the playoffs. No exceptions will be made!

No Pockets / Flag Belt Rule

Due to safety reasons, players cannot wear any article of clothing that contains pockets (shorts, pants, jackets, sweatshirts, hand warmers, etc). If a player wears an article of clothing with pockets, they will not be allowed to wear a flag belt and will be marked down at the spot where the ball was caught. FXA does not permit players to tape their pockets or turn them inside out; only if shorts are double-lined where the pocket is concealed inside the lining may a player turn their shorts inside out.

If a player (other than the QB) begins the play without a flag belt, the player will be marked down at the spot where the ball was caught. There is no additional penalty because the player has no opportunity to gain additional yardage. If the QB begins a play without a flag belt, they are down as soon as they receive the snap, and loss of down.

Football Size Requirements

Any NFHS/NCAA/NFL or Junior/Womens size ball may used.

Timing

The game will be divided into two 20 minute halves. Each team is allowed two one-minute timeouts per game. Both timeouts may be used in either half. The offensive team will have 30 seconds to snap the ball once the referee has spotted the ball. The official game clock will be maintained by a referee and will run continuously except for time-outs or serious injury–following an injury timeout, the game clock should resume following the ready-for-play whistle.. The clock will stop during the final 2 minutes of play for the following occurrences:

**If a team is leading by 17 points or more, the clock will run continuously during the last two minutes of play. In this scenario, the team that is winning will not be allowed to use any timeouts that is has left. **

Incomplete pass

Player advancing the ball goes out of bounds

First Down

Change of possession

Either team scores. (The clock will not resume until the opposing team snaps the ball after the PAT attempt. The clock does not run during extra points.)

Penalty

Declared punt

Time Out

Beginning of the Game

Teams must be lined up on opposite sidelines. Before the start of the game the referee will toss a coin in the presence of opposing captains, after first designating which captain shall call the toss. The team that wins the coin flip at the start of the game must choose one of the following:

Offense;

Defense;

To defer the choice of the above options to begin the second half;

The team that loses the coin flip shall select the direction for the 2nd half.

Play starts from the 10-yard line at the beginning of each half. At the beginning of the second half, the teams will change their direction of play. There will be a maximum ten minute grace period before each game. The game will be deemed a forfeit thereafter at the discretion of the Referee.

Snapping the Ball Into Play

To begin each play, the ball must be snapped by a center to the QB who is lined up behind the center. The ball can be snapped with a verbal or nonverbal command. Silent counts / snaps are legal. Players may shift and change formations prior to the snap of the ball, but must be stationary at the time the ball is snapped. One player is allowed in motion at the time the ball is snapped, but cannot be moving towards the line of scrimmage. A snap from center is not required on declared punts. A minimum of four players must be lined up (set) at the line of scrimmage at the snap of the ball.

Intentional Grounding

There is No Intentional Grounding rule

Inadvertent Whistle

Should an inadvertent whistle be blown, the team in possession of the ball at the time of the whistle will have two options: take the result of the play with the ball declared dead at the spot where the whistle was blown, or replay the down from the original line of scrimmage. If an inadvertent whistle is blown during a pass play while the ball is in the air, the play will be declared dead and replayed from the original line of scrimmage.

Overtime

There will be no overtime during the regular season. In the playoffs, overtime will mirror NCAA overtime, and will consist of each team having one offensive possession starting at the opponents 20-yard line selected in a captains meeting (both offenses will go toward the same goal in overtime). The offensive team will have 4 un-timed downs to score a touchdown (all regular penalties will apply during the overtime period). If a touchdown is scored the offensive team will have the option to go for a 1- or 2-point conversion. If teams are tied after the 1st overtime period, the process will be repeated until a winner is determined. Starting with the 3rd overtime period, teams will be required to go for a 2-point conversion upon scoring a touchdown.

No Contact / Downfield Blocking

There is no blocking or tackling permitted in the league. Players acting as offensive linemen may not use their hands when protecting the quarterback from defensive rushers. Offensive linemen can position their bodies at any particular angle in an attempt to direct the rushers to a particular area, but there is no contact permitted. Offensive lineman must have their hands at their sides or behind their backs when blocking to prevent their arms from extending. Picks are also NOT permitted at any time.

No downfield blocking/tackling is permitted. Illegal contact includes tripping, contact with the QB, any intentional contact by an opposing player and contact with an opposing player after a ball is tipped. Also note that rough play may result in an unsportsmanlike penalty. Anyone in violation of this rule is subject to penalty, suspension and/or expulsion from the league.

Picks or Illegal Screens are NOT Permitted at any time.

First Downs

Each team shall have four downs to earn a first down or score. First downs are achieved when a team crosses either of the 20 yard markers (20, 20) based on its original field position. Offensive teams may elect to punt on fourth downs. All punts are live and may be fielded after bouncing on the ground. However, if a receiving player muffs (touches) the ball and it hits the ground, the play is dead. If a team does not punt, fails to score or earn a first down the opposing team will obtain possession.

Scoring

The scoring shall be assigned as follows:

Touchdown: All touchdowns will be awarded 6 points

Extra Point(s):

From the 5 yd line – 1-point for all normal conversions

From the 10 yd line – 2-point for all normal conversions

The defense may return an interception for two points on a two-point attempt

Pass Rush

Pass Rushing in the womens league will mirror that of the co-ed league. Once the line of scrimmage has been marked, the referee will walk off five paces in the direction the offense is going and place another marker. This 5 pace marker is the RUSH LINE. Only defensive players that are behind this marker when the ball is snapped may cross the line of scrimmage to rush the QB. No players lined up within this zone, may rush the QB. If the QB pitches the ball or hands-off to another offensive player, any defensive player may cross the line of scrimmage no matter where they were lined up before the snap. If the line of scrimmage is between the goal line and the five-yard line, the RUSH LINE will be the goal line. The rush line can never be placed inside the endzone.

Continuance of Play

Play shall continue until:

Ball carrier has flag-belt pulled by an opponent (see flag specifics for the few exceptions/additions concerning flag pulling)

Ball carrier leaves the field of play

Ball carrier scores

Ball carriers knee touches the ground

Ball touches the ground

Spot of the Ball

The ball will be spotted where the ball is at the time the ball carriers flag is pulled. If the ball crosses the plane of the goal line before the ball carriers flag has been pulled it will result in a touchdown (ball extension).

Punts

The offensive team must declare their intention to punt or election to play on every 4th down. The referee shall notify the defensive team of the election prior to the ball being made ready for play.

A punt must be declared and cannot be faked.

The receiving team may return a punt once it has hit the ground.

All punts are free punts. A team need not snap during a punt.

A dropped snap during a punt is not a fumble.

Punts must be kicked and cannot be thrown.

The kicking team may not cross the line of scrimmage until the ball is kicked.

Downfield blocking is not permitted.

The receiving team can line up be no closer than the 5-yard rush line and may not raise hands or jump to block a punt.

The punting team may down the punted ball if the receiving team makes no effort to gain the ball.

A punt into the end zone will be spotted at the 10-yard line–the punt is immediately ruled a touchback once the ball breaks the vertical plane of the goal line.

If a player drops the ball in the end zone, the ball is spotted at the 10-yard line and is not counted as a safety.

Turnovers

A change of possession (not after a score) can only occur due to downs or an interception. A fumble is not a turnover and the play is considered dead at the point of the fumble. A lateral may be intercepted and returned by the opposing team.

Flag Guarding

Flag guarding is not allowed. Flag guarding is defined as any action that is made with the arms, hands, or legs that prevents a player from being able to pull another players flag. A player engaging in flag guarding will be penalized. It is illegal to pull the flag of a player who does not have possession of the football. Throwing flag belts after making a pull is not allowed, and can be penalized as a personal foul.

Flag Belts

Flag belts must be fastened outside of all clothing with nothing obstructing them. If, during a play, any clothing obstructs the defenses ability to grab a flag (shirt is hanging over the flag belt), then the player will be called down at the first instance that the defense had a chance to pull the flag. A ball carrier whose flag-belt falls off inadvertently during a play will be considered down upon a one-handed touch. However, if any player (besides the QB) gains possession of the ball without properly secured flags, then they will be down as soon as they touch/catch the ball. It is a penalty for a ball carrier to stiff-arm, charge into, or deliberately try to knock over a defensive player. In addition, a ball carrier may not dive (diving is defined as a player leaving their feet without returning to their feet) in an effort to gain extra yardage.

Sportsmanship

FXA endorses the principles of good sportsmanship. Unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated. Unsportsmanlike conduct can include the following: Fighting, pushing, verbal/physical abuse directed toward an official or opponent, profanity/obscene gestures, flagrant/violent fouls, taunting/trash talking/baiting, cheating, throwing/abusing equipment and physical intimidation. A player may be ejected from a game (or a team may be evicted from the field of play) for engaging in Unsportsmanlike Conduct. An official may call a forfeit for unsportsmanlike conduct at any time, including after the game clock has expired. The League has the authority to suspend and/or expel a player or team from the league and/or future game(s) at its discretion with no refund of monies for such acts. These guidelines apply to players and spectators.

Game Cancellation Policy

Games may be cancelled due to existing weather conditions, dangerous or unplayable field conditions, facility constraints, etc. FXA staff makes every effort to play all scheduled games, thus we will not cancel games until absolutely necessary. Therefore, if you call the FXA Hotline to find out if the fields are open and/or games are cancelled, remember we will not update the hotline until close to the start of the game. With that said, we will update the hotline as soon as we have updated status.

If the games are cancelled, FXA will update the hotline immediately. FXA will then change the status of the field to Closed on the website, which will send out an email to all roster players letting them know the game is cancelled. It is still the captains responsibility to inform all teammates of the cancellation. If a game is cancelled on site, FXA will attempt to contact those teams still scheduled to play the remainder of the day/night. Depending on the time of cancellation, some teams will have to be notified on site. If we do cancel, follow next weeks schedule unless otherwise notified, (i.e. If June 20th games are cancelled, teams should follow the June 27th schedule for their next game). The games that are cancelled will be made up towards the end of the season if time allows.

In extreme circumstances, FXA reserves the right to run a shortened season without a refund. FXA will make every attempt to get all regular season games played, however for every two (2) game cancellations due to weather, the season may be shortened one (1) regular season game. FXA also reserves the right to schedule games on days other than your regularly scheduled league day/night if necessary

Forfeit Fees

If your team needs to forfeit a game (for whatever reason), please make sure to let us know ASAP. FXA Football has now implemented the following forfeit fees: $100 within 8 hours of game time (Monday – Friday) and within 12 hours of game time (Saturdays & Sundays).

Jewelry Policy

At the Referees sole discretion, a player may be required to remove any jewelry that is deemed unsafe for play. Failure to comply could result in a suspension and game forfeit.

Penalties & Enforcement

OFFENSIVE FOULS

PENALTY

ENFORCEMENT SPOT

DOWN

Flag Guarding

5 Yards

Spot Foul

Next Down

Offsides

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Downfield Blocking

5 Yards

Spot Foul

Next Down

False Start (*Dead Ball Foul)

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Illegal Contact/Pick (Pre-Pass)

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Illegal Contact/Pick (Post-Pass)

5 Yards

Spot Foul

Next Down

Illegal Forward Pass

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Loss of Down

Illegal Motion

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Illegal Participation

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Illegal Formation

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Offensive Pass Interference

10 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Diving

5 Yards

Spot Foul

Next Down

DEFENSIVE FOULS

PENALTY

ENFORCEMENT SPOT

DOWN

Illegal Rushing

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Offsides

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Illegal Contact

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Pass Interference

10 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Auto 1st Down

Roughing the Passer

10 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Auto 1st Down

Holding (on Run Plays)

5 Yards

End of Run

Next Down

Holding (on Pass Plays)

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

Illegal Flag Pull

5 Yards

Spot Foul

Next Down

Illegal Stripping

5 Yards

End of Run

Next Down

Illegal Participation

5 Yards

Previous L.O.S.

Replay Down

GENERAL FOULS

PENALTY

ENFORCEMENT SPOT

DOWN

Arguing w/ Official

10 Yards

End of Play

Next Down

Unsportsmanlike Conduct

10 Yards

End of Play

Auto 1st Down

Defensive Excessive Contact / Rough Play

10 Yards

End of Play

Auto 1st Down

Offensive Excessive Contact / Rough Play

10 Yards

End of Play

Loss of Down

Defensive Penalty Clarifications:

Holding = Replay the down if the penalty occurs on 4th down or inside the 10-yard line

Illegal Contact is defined as:

Tripping

Contact with the QB

Any intentional contact by an opposing player (referee discretion)

Contact with an opposing player after a ball is tipped

Rough play may result in an unsportsmanlike penalty

Illegal Stripping = It is illegal to bat or strip a ball from a players hand.

A period cannot end on an accepted penalty, even if time expires. One un-timed down will be required to complete the period.

Offensive Penalty Clarifications:

Illegal Contact is defined as:

Pushing Off

Any other intentional contact by an offensive player on a defensive player in the field of play

If official determines that contact was initiated with intent to harm, the offending player will be ejected from the game. The player must leave the field of play immediately. If the player does not leave the field his/her team may be charged with a forfeit for the game regardless of score or time remaining. Any player ejected from a game may not play in any other games that day.

The ejected player may not play in future games without league approval.

An official may call a forfeit for unsportsmanlike conduct. Even if the game has ended, an official may call a forfeit.

The League has the authority to suspend and/or expel a player or team from the league and/or future game(s) at its discretion with no refund of monies for such acts.

Fighting:

Automatic ejection from the game

Once ejected, a player must leave the field. If the player does not leave the field his/her team may be required to forfeit that game, regardless of score or time remaining. Any player ejected from a game may not play in any other games that day.

The ejected player may not play in future games without league approval.

An official may call a forfeit for unsportsmanlike conduct. Even if the game has ended, an official may call a forfeit.

The League has the authority to suspend and/or expel any player or team from the league and/or future game(s) at its discretion with no refund of monies for such acts.

FXA League Policies

Team Captains are responsible for the complete payment of all league fees

A Captains Meeting will be held prior to the start of the season. Captains, or a team representative, are required to attend. League rules and procedures will be discussed at that time

League fees must be paid by PayPal before the first game. Failure to make payment before this time may lead to expulsion from the league

Team Rosters must be completed and submitted online. Additions and changes to the Roster are permitted up until the fourth game of the seaso

The Online Player Waiver & Release form must be filled out completely by each player, and submitted online before the first game

If a team is not prepared to play at its designated game time and/or does not have the minimum number of players at the designated game time, the game will be declared a forfeit. There will be a ten-minute grace period prior to a forfeit being declared

A maximum of two pick-up players (1 male & 1 female or 2 females) will be permitted only when a team does not have enough of its own players present to field a team. Additionally, the league now requires the team captain or a team representative to provide the full name of each pick-up player before they can enter the field. In extreme cases, that pick up player may be required to show ID. A pick-up player can only play for the same team twice (2) in any league / season. This rule is intended to eliminate teams illegally sharing players. Any team that does not report their pick up player(s) may have that game result in a forfeit. A pick up player is defined as any male or female that is not listed on the teams roster

If a game is stopped due to dangerous weather conditions prior to the beginning of the second half or prior to a previously designated point, the game will be replayed in its entirety. If a game is stopped thereafter, it will be considered a complete game and the score will stand. There is no requirement that each team have the same number of offensive series before a game is stopped

Any excessive verbal or physical activity will result in an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. This rule applies to players, managers and coaches on the field and on the sidelines

Fighting or obscene language will result in an automatic ejection from the league with no refund of payments. Unsportsmanlike behavior will not be tolerated

ABSOLUTELY NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES OR DRUG USE ARE ALLOWED ON THE FIELD. Any player using drugs or alcohol in the playing area, the parking lot, before, during or after games will be ejected from the league with no refund of payments. THIS RULE WILL BE STRICTLY ENFORCED.

These rules & policies are designed to make the league run as smoothly and safely as possible, and provide continuity for its participants. Each player in the league is responsible for this information: please advise your team of these rules / league policies and thanks for playing.